P. K. O'Ryan's Brings Irish Hospitality to Worthington
Ten years ago, business partners Paul Hemmer and Jay Ryan dreamed of recreating the Irish pub atmosphere they’d grown to love during visits to Ireland. Lucky for us they chose to fulfill their dream in Downtown Worthington. Today, P. K. O’Ryan’s Irish Pub & Restaurant is firmly entrenched as a Worthington institution, boasting everything from Irish stew made with Guinness to the friendly, family-like hospitality that makes Irish pubs so memorable.
Hemmer is a self-professed fan of Ireland and its culture. In fact, he is also an Irish citizen and descendant of the Sullivan family. His first trip to Ireland took place in the 1970s. “Everywhere we went in Ireland, we were treated like kings. It is a very warm, hospitable environment,” he said. “I think we have recreated that here.”
P. K. O’Ryan’s is a favorite stomping ground for locals and out-of-towners. It’s a place where people of all ages can enjoy a hearty menu and a full-bodied beer. Some of the most popular menu items include the P.K. Pub Steak, the Reuben sandwich and beer-battered French fries, Irish Nachos (imagine a Reuben on nacho chips), the robust hamburgers (which are purchased fresh—never frozen—directly from Carfagna’s), and a host of breakfast items served daily until 2 p.m.
Not to be overlooked or upstaged is the large beer selection, including eight or nine beers on tap. And, of course, there
is always plenty of Guinness to go around. In fact, this is the place to go if you love Guinness. “We turn over those kegs as fast as anyone I know,” Hemmer said. “It’s better when it’s fresh.”
Today, Hemmer, who is an attorney in Worthington, looks back on his adventure into restaurant ownership with no regrets. He believes the city of Worthington has played a huge role in P. K. O’Ryan’s success. “Worthington has been incredible in terms of development and the help they provide,” he said. “I have never seen such a cohesive community.”
Sláinte!
Find out more about P. K. O'Ryan's at http://visitworthingtonohio.com/p-k-o-ryans-irish-pub/